Postdoctoral Research Associate - Grid Modeling

Requisition Id16569 Overview

The Grid Transients & Advanced Modeling Group in the Electrification and Energy Infrastructure Division (EEID) within the Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform R&D in the areas of electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation and software development as well as dynamic and transient inverter modeling and different applications of the simulation.

Selection will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and education. You should be highly self‑motivated and independent in conducting research under general guidance and are expected to prepare manuscripts for scientific publication and present the work to sponsors and at conferences.

The group supports the energy reliability and prosperity mission of the Energy Department (DOE) through transformative science and technology solutions, including research supporting the Office of Electricity (OE), Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response (CESER), and Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI) on the integration of new technologies, identifying and validating new ways of using existing and emerging grid assets to ensure grid reliability and affordability of energy supplies.

The group focuses on advanced grid modeling using advanced computing resources (e.g., quantum computing), EMT simulations, and power electronics control.

• Develop electromagnetic transient (EMT) models for transmission or distribution grids, synchronous generators, large loads, transmission networks, etc.
• Develop simulation algorithms that enable large‑scale simulations.
• Integrate (or co‑simulate) grid component/device models into open‑source software tools for integrated system dynamic and transient simulations.
• Integrate post‑processing measures for simulations to help with automation.

Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

• A Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering, or related discipline completed within the last five years.
• Expertise in power systems and power electronics.
• Experience in C/C++, Matlab, and Python programming.
• Experience in power systems software like PSCAD, PSS/e.

• Experience with software development.
• Experience with use of GPUs, multi‑core CPUs, advanced computing (e.g., QPUs).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self‑starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast‑paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever‑changing needs.

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD‑12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post‑employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives,…